The Pride in Place Programme (PiPP) Board (Peterlee East) is scheduled to meet on Friday 18 September 2026. The meeting's agenda includes updates on the Pride in Place programme, discussions on future salary charges for operational delivery, and a review of communications and marketing strategies.

Programme Update and Community Engagement

A significant portion of the meeting is expected to focus on the ongoing Pride in Place programme, which aims to support community-focused regeneration across Great Britain. The programme, funded by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), has allocated up to £20 million to Peterlee East over the next 10 years. The report pack details extensive community engagement activities undertaken, including events, drop-in sessions, and online surveys, which have gathered feedback from hundreds of residents and stakeholders.

Key priorities identified through this engagement include:

• Town and Village Centre Regeneration: Concerns about empty shops, derelict buildings, and a lack of retail choice are prominent. Residents desire investment to revitalise these areas.
• Crime, Anti-Social Behaviour, and Community Safety: Issues such as drug-related activity, nuisance motorcycles, vandalism, and shoplifting are frequently mentioned, alongside a perceived need for increased visible enforcement.
• Opportunities for Children and Young People: A lack of youth clubs, facilities, and positive activities is a significant concern, with some respondents linking this to anti-social behaviour.

Other priorities highlighted include improving transport and accessibility, enhancing health and wellbeing services, investing in parks and green spaces, improving environmental quality, creating employment and skills opportunities, and strengthening community cohesion. The report notes that the feedback demonstrates a desire for safer communities, stronger local centres, better opportunities for young people and investment that improves both the quality of places and the quality of life for residents. ¹

The meeting is also scheduled to cover the progress of the Neighbourhood Board and Boundary Submission, which has been approved by MHCLG. Durham County Council's community engagement approach has been recognised as an example of national best practice by the MHCLG.

Quick Wins Programme

The meeting will also review the progress of the Quick Wins Funding Scheme. This scheme has a budget of £117,604 in capital funding and £135,000 in revenue funding. Four applications have already been approved, including support for Easington Colliery Primary School, CRT Game on Active Youth Dance Sessions, and the Durham Aged Minerworkers Homes Social Suppers project. Seven further applications are currently under assessment, with discussions planned regarding project sustainability, accessibility, and opportunities for securing alternative funding.

Communications and Marketing

The board is expected to discuss future communications and marketing arrangements for the Pride in Place programme. This includes considering the appointment of a dedicated Pride in Place Communications Officer to support all four County Durham Pride in Place Boards. The proposed role would involve developing and delivering a comprehensive communications strategy, managing the programme's digital presence, creating promotional content, and leading media relations. The estimated annual cost for this role is between £11,215 and £12,419 per Board. The report suggests that a single County Durham Pride in Place website, with dedicated sections for each programme area, could provide a consistent and accessible platform.

Future Salary Charges for Operational Delivery

The meeting is scheduled to address future salary charges for operational delivery. This follows a recommendation from the MHCLG assessment panel for the Board to formally review these arrangements as the current commitment expires in November 2026.